Hey Friend
There’s a growing frustration I’m hearing from leaders - “Why don’t people want to work like we used to?”
The implication: if someone clocks off at 5pm, they’re uncommitted. If they push back on unrealistic expectations, they’re entitled.
But what if we’re asking the wrong questions?
Before we label others as “entitled,” we need to pause and reflect...
Have we created a culture where overwork is the price of progression?
Have we unconsciously equated busyness with value and built systems that reward sacrifice over sustainability?
I used to believe the harder you worked, the more you proved yourself. I stayed late. Said yes to everything. I built my career on doing more than others.
And it worked - until it didn’t.
That same mindset that got me ahead nearly burned me out.
And it wasn’t just me.
I saw high-potential people turning away from leadership roles because the cost - mentally, emotionally, physically - was too high. The system was built on one-way giving, not mutual commitment.
Kindness in leadership isn’t just about being nice. It’s about being fair. Realistic. Respectful.
It’s saying: “I’ll give you clarity, purpose, and support - and I’ll respect your time. In return, I expect ownership, follow-through, and integrity.”
That’s reciprocity. That’s partnership.
When we lead with kindness and strength, we create space for honest conversations about expectations - upward, downward, and sideways. We set standards that are stretching but human.
And we empower people to contribute meaningfully within the roles they’ve agreed to, not as a test of their loyalty, but as a mark of respect.
✨ If you’re ready to lead in a way that balances ambition with sustainability - if you want to create a culture where expectations are clear, accountability is mutual, and kindness is strategic - let’s talk.
Through my coaching, facilitation, and leadership programs, I help high-performing leaders like you reset outdated norms and step into a style of leadership that’s powerful, real, and human.
👉 Learn more or book a conversation at shelleyflett.com
Let’s stop leading by sacrifice - and start leading by design.
With strength and kindness,
Shelley 😁
Shelley Flett
Leadership Trainer, Facilitator & Coach | Shelley Flett Pty Ltd
M: 0407 522 888 | E: shelley@shelleyflett.com | W: shelleyflett.com
Calendar: https://calendly.com/shelley_flett/leadership-development-discussion
Podcast: https://anchor.fm/shelley-flett
